Demi Lovato Live-Debuts 'Commander In Chief' At 2020 Billboard Music Awards

By Hayden Brooks

October 15, 2020

Less than one day after its release, Demi Lovato's new political ballad, "Commander in Chief," reached a new audience when the pop star debuted the song live at the 2020 Billboard Music Awards.

After introductions from host Kelly Clarkson, Lovato, 28, took to the ceremony to deliver the first performance of the track with a giant backdrop with the word: "Vote." While playing the piano, the pop star, who was dressed in a bright blue ensemble, performed the anti-Trump diss track, which was co-written by Lovato, Julia Michaels, FINNEAS, Justin Tranter and Eren Cannata.

"Commander in Chief, honestly/ If I did the things you do/ I couldn't sleep, seriously/ Do you even know the truth?/ We're in a state of crisis, people are dyin'/ While you line your pockets deep/ Commander in Chief, how does it feel to still/ Be able to breathe?" she delicately crooned in front of a choir of backup singers.

Lovato's new track caused some friction (even from fans) after its release. "I hope you realize this makes people that don't have the same political views feel like they can't listen to you anymore," wrote one user. "We could care less what you post about politics but this song is going [too far], especially when the majority of your family is Republican. I'm personally ashamed to be a Lovatic right now ... I really hope this doesn't ruin your career Demetria."

For her response, the pop star made it clear that she has no interest in how the track will negatively impact her career. "You do understand as a celebrity, I have a right to political views as well? Or did you forget that we aren't just around to entertain people for our entire lives ... that we are citizens of the same country and we are humans with opinions as well?" she responded. "The difference between me and the type of artist you WANT and EXPECT me to be, (but I'm sorry honey that will never BE me) I literally don't care if this ruins my career. This isn't about that," she continued. "I made a piece of art that stands for something I believe in. And I'm putting it out even at the risk of losing fans. I'll take integrity in my work over sales any day."

"As much as I would like to be sad that I disappointed you, I'm too busy being bummed that you expect me, a queer Hispanic woman, to silence my views/beliefs in order to please my audience. ie, your family," she continued.

Photo: Getty Images

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